NIA conducts searches in Mizoram in trans-border arms trafficking case; 3 held
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Aizawl: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested three persons from Mizoram in a trans-border arms ammunition trafficking case, an official said on Saturday, adding the arrests were made following extensive searches at six locations in different districts of Mizoram.
The apprehended individuals have been identified as Lalrinchhunga, Vanlaldailova and Lalmuanpuia.
The trio -- arrested on Friday -- were found linked with the previously arrested accused and suspects, and were actively involved in the explosives, weapons and ammunition trafficking network, an NIA statement said.
The target locations, in Mammit, Serchip and Aizawl districts, included a gunhouse, the release read.
Numerous weapons, ammunition, explosives, weapons manufacturing equipment and tools, digital devices and other incriminating articles were seized during the searches, carried out as part of the NIA's ongoing investigations in the case.
The national probe agency had registered a case in Delhi on December 26, 2023 under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code, IPC, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, Explosive Substances Act 1908 and Arms Act.
The NIA had started investigating the matter on the basis of inputs that some Mizoram-based entities were engaged in an illegal business and running a syndicate involved in the trafficking of arms, ammunition, explosives etc. in the northeastern region of the country.
NIA had earlier in July and November this year chargesheeted accused Lalngaihawma and Solomona alias Hminga alias Lalmithanga respectively in the case.
The agency is continuing with its investigations to unravel the conspiracy behind the arms and explosives trafficking in Mizoram and other northeastern states.
The NIA in July last year also arrested three persons, including a Myanmar national, after extensive searches in connection with the Mizoram explosives, arms and ammunition seizure case.
The three accused were arrested after raids at four locations in Mizoram, including two places in Champhai district, bordering Myanmar, and one each in Aizawl and Lawngtlai districts.
The raids on July 25 were conducted at the homes of the suspects, linked with pilferage and transportation of explosives and arms from Mizoram to Myanmar.
Various incriminating materials were seized during the raids.
On December 4, the Assam Rifles along with the Mizoram Police recovered Rs 1.24 crore of Indian currencies and apprehended one Myanmar citizen identified as Lianbiaksang (26) from Ngur areas of Champhai district along the India-Myanmar border.
Police suspect that the Indian money might be intended for use to purchase arms and ammunition or any contraband.
IANS